§ Mr. Shersbyasked the Secretary of State for Social Service how many drug abuse centres there are in West London capable of providing advice and treatment to outpatients; if he is satisfied with the extent to which adequate control of drug addiction is being maintained; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Geoffrey FinsbergThere are seven such centres in the Greater London area of the North-West Thames and South-West Thames regions.
The Home Office is primarily responsible for the control of drug addiction generally. In England, the Secretary of State for Social Services is responsible for health education, treatment and rehabilitation. The advisory council on the misuse of drugs is engaged on comprehensive reviews of treatment and rehabilitation services and of prevention. The council's report on treatment and rehabilitation is expected to be completed by the end of the year and its recommendations will then be considered by the Ministers concerned.